Choosing a favorite track as an Eagles fan is a challenge, but it’s an even tougher task for the band members themselves. With seven studio albums in their discography, each song comes packed with memories of writing, recording, and performing, making the selection process deeply personal. While many hits like “One of These Nights” and “Desperado” stand out, notably absent from their choices is the iconic “Hotel California.”
Don Henley’s Top Picks
Don Henley, the band’s drummer and vocalist, has shared several favorites over the years. One standout is “The Last Resort” from the 1976 album Hotel California. Despite the title track’s commercial success, Henley is drawn to the themes of environmentalism and power explored in this poignant closer. “I care more about the environment than about writing songs about drugs or love affairs or excesses of any kind,” he expressed in a conversation with Rolling Stone.
Henley also highlighted “Those Shoes” from their 1979 album The Long Run. This classic rocker combines unusual effects with a narrative of “desperation in the singles bars,” showcasing the band’s versatility.
Glenn Frey’s Favorite
Glenn Frey, another founding member, named “One of These Nights” as his favorite Eagles song. Released shortly before Hotel California, this track exemplifies the band’s growth. In Life in the Fast Lane, Frey described it as a “breakthrough song” that blends various influences, from country to blues. “If I had to pick one, it wouldn’t be ‘Hotel California’; it would be ‘One of These Nights’,” he affirmed, emphasizing its significance in their catalog.
Vince Gill’s Selections
Vince Gill, who joined the Eagles in the late 2010s after Frey’s passing, has his own favorites. Although he wasn’t with the band during its early success, he appreciates the classics, starting with “Desperado,” which he noted was the first song written by Frey and Henley together. “Desperado” remains a signature track in the Eagles’ repertoire, resonating with fans long after its release.
Gill’s other picks include the mellow “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” another early hit, and “I Can’t Tell You Why” from The Long Run. He also expressed affection for “Ol’ 55,” calling it “a sentimental favorite.”
Through these selections, the Eagles not only showcase their diverse musical legacy but also provide a glimpse into their personal connections to the music they’ve created together.
